FCC Moves to Tighten Security: New Rules Target Foreign Testing Labs

WASHINGTON (April 30, 2026) — The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) today took significant steps to overhaul the way electronic devices are vetted for the American market. In a unanimous vote, the Commission launched a new rule-making process that would ban the use of testing labs located in countries that refuse to recognize U.S. testing labs.

The move marks a return to a "reciprocity-first" policy, aimed at bolstering national security and ensuring a level playing field for American laboratories.

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Restoring Reciprocity and Security

The proposed rules aim to close a loophole that has existed since 2015. Historically, the FCC only recognized test labs in countries that had Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) with the United States. Today’s proposal seeks to restore this requirement, phasing out labs in non-reciprocal countries over a two-year period once the rules are finalized.

"Today’s actions help ensure integrity, security, and reciprocity in electronic device testing,"

The FCC stated, noting that the goal is to strengthen oversight and prevent foreign adversaries from compromising the equipment authorization process.

A "Fast-Track" for Trusted Labs

To balance security with efficiency, the FCC also adopted an Order to streamline approvals for "trusted" sources. Highlights include:

• Priority Review: Devices tested in U.S.-based labs or reciprocal international locations will now qualify for a fast-track approval process.
• Increased Transparency: Labs must now disclose their exact locations and the number of employees involved in FCC-recognized testing.
• Enhanced Surveillance: The FCC is strengthening post-market checks and creating confidential "whistleblower" channels for industry members to report security threats or violations. 

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Crackdown on "Bad Labs"

This decision builds on momentum from 2025, when the FCC began prohibiting labs owned or controlled by foreign adversaries. Since that policy shift, the Commission has already stripped 23 "Bad Labs" of their recognition, citing direct threats to U.S. national security.

What’s Next?

The Notice of Proposed Rule-making (NPRM) is now open for public comment. The action was approved by Chairman Carr and Commissioners Gomez and Trusty, signaling a unified front on prioritizing the integrity of the U.S. communications supply chain.

Feature	New Policy
Non-Reciprocal Labs	Proposed 2-year phase-out
U.S. & MRA Labs	Fast-track priority review
Reporting	New confidential channels for security concerns
Enforcement	Stronger post-market surveillance

 

REF 

FCC 26-28 Action "Fact Sheet"

FCC press release

 

FCC Bans New Foreign-Made Consumer Routers, Citing "Unacceptable" National Security Risks

WASHINGTON, March 23, 2026 — The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has officially added consumer-grade routers produced in foreign countries to its "Covered List." The move effectively bans the authorization of any new foreign-made router models for import, marketing, or sale within the United States.

The ruling follows a National Security Determination issued on March 20, 2026, by a White House-convened inter-agency body. The group concluded that routers produced abroad pose a severe threat to U.S. infrastructure and the safety of American citizens.

The "Security Gap": Why the FCC Acted

The FCC cited a growing pattern of cyberattacks that specifically exploit vulnerabilities in home and small office routers. Key findings include:

• Infrastructure Targets: Foreign-made routers were directly implicated in the Volt, Flax, and Salt Typhoon cyberattacks, which targeted American energy, water, and transportation systems.
• The "Attack Vector of Choice": Malicious actors are increasingly using these devices to create massive botnets and conduct "password spray" attacks against high-value targets.
• Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: Officials warned that reliance on foreign production introduces backdoors that could be leveraged to disrupt the U.S. economy and national defense.

What This Means for Consumers

The ruling is designed to phase out foreign hardware without disrupting current users.

• No Impact on Current Devices: This ban does not apply to routers you already own or models that received FCC approval prior to March 23, 2026.
• Continued Retail Sales: Stores can continue to sell existing inventory of previously authorized models.
• Waiver for Security Updates: In a separate move (DA 26-286), the FCC granted a limited waiver until March 1, 2027. This ensures that all routers currently in use—even those now on the "Covered List"—can still receive critical software and firmware patches to protect users from emerging threats.

The New Standard: "Conditional Approval" and On-shoring

To continue selling new models in the U.S., manufacturers must now navigate a rigorous "Conditional Approval" process managed by the Department of War (DoW) or Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

To qualify for an exemption, companies must provide:

1. Detailed On-shoring Plans: A time-bound strategy to move or expand manufacturing and assembly within the United States.
2. Quarterly Progress Reports: Ongoing updates to federal agencies on the status of their U.S. manufacturing facilities.
3. Capital Investment Proof: Documentation of financing and investment dedicated to U.S.-based production over the next 1–5 years.

Industry Impact

The scope of the ruling is broad. While China accounts for roughly 60% of the U.S. router market, the ban applies to any foreign country. This includes major hubs like Taiwan, Vietnam, and Thailand, affecting nearly every major brand, including Netgear, Amazon (Eero), Google (Nest Wifi), TP-Link, and Asus.

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 "Routers are the boxes in every home that connect us to the internet. We must ensure these critical gateways are not providing foreign actors with a built-in backdoor to American lives." — FCC Fact Sheet Summary

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Quick Reference:

• Is my current router banned? No.
• Can I still buy a router today? Yes, existing models are still legal to sell.
• Will prices go up? Analysts expect potential price increases as manufacturers shift production to the U.S.

How do I know if a new model is safe? Look for the FCC ID; moving forward, any new model authorized will have passed the new federal security and on-shoring requirements.

 

REF:

Public Notice 

FCC FAQ 

FCC Updates Covered List